Israeli UN Ambassador Criticizes US Weapon Freeze

Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, voiced strong objections to President Joe Biden's recent decision to withhold weapon shipments to Israel, a move that has stirred significant controversy amid ongoing military operations. Speaking on KAN radio, Erdan highlighted concerns that such restrictions could inadvertently strengthen the resolve of Israel's enemies, including Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

Erdan's comments came in response to Biden's explicit threat to halt arms supplies if Israeli forces proceed with their planned entry into Rafah, a critical area in the Gaza Strip where significant Hamas military presence is noted. "If they go into Rafah, I'm not supplying the weapons that have been used historically to deal with Rafah, to deal with the cities—that deal with that problem," Biden stated, emphasizing a shift in U.S. policy that aligns with his administration's broader approach to the conflict.

This stance by the U.S. President has been framed as a measure to avoid exacerbating the conflict, particularly in areas with high civilian populations. However, Erdan and other Israeli officials perceive it as a potential encouragement to Israel's adversaries, interpreting the move as a weakening of Israel's strategic position.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz and other officials have reaffirmed their commitment to continuing the fight against Hamas, stressing the justice of their cause and the necessity of their actions for national security. Deputy Religious Services Minister Matan Kahana and Likud MK Dan Illouz also criticized the U.S. decision, viewing it as contrary to the longstanding commitment to Israel's security.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored the strategic importance of operations in Rafah for the overarching goal of dismantling Hamas and securing the release of hostages. "Israel will not allow Hamas to restore its evil regime in the Gaza Strip," Netanyahu declared, asserting the necessity of military pressure to achieve these objectives.

The debate over the U.S. weapon freeze reflects broader tensions and divergent approaches to handling the conflict with Hamas, highlighting the complexities of international support and military ethics in wartime. As the situation develops, the global community watches closely, gauging the impact of diplomatic decisions on regional stability and the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations.

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